Alberta expands support for flood-related emotional trauma

More counselling and outreach services will be available to those suffering the emotional toll of the floods.

A total of $2.03 million over two years will go towards supporting services for people dealing with family violence and abuse, as well as those who are homeless.

“Last year’s southern Alberta floods resulted in personal trauma for many families and individuals directly impacted by this natural disaster. With this additional funding we are making sure that everyone who needs help can get help.”

Manmeet S. Bhullar, Minister of Human Services

Since the flood, emergency women’s shelters and homeless shelters in Calgary and High River have faced increased pressures. Funding will go towards additional resources to help vulnerable families rebuild their lives.

Several family violence prevention agencies will share in approximately $1 million over two years:

Awo Taan Healing Lodge Society;

Calgary Women’s Emergency Shelter Association;

Strathmore’s Community Crisis Society;

YWCA of Calgary – Sherriff King Home; and,

Discovery House Family Violence Prevention Society.

“Incidents of family violence can emerge long after a traumatic event, when life just doesn’t seem to be returning back to normal. Recovery is possible with continued support, encouragement and time. I am pleased our government is able to support the healing process.”

Sandra Jansen, Associate Minister of Family and Community Safety

Also included is support for Rowan House Society in High River for two more outreach workers and seven more emergency shelter beds for women and children leaving abusive homes.

An additional $644,000 will be provided to the Calgary Homeless Foundation. Funding distributed to The Distress Centre, Calgary Drop-In Centre, and Inn from the Cold will be used to hire additional staff who can provide crisis and basic needs support and to help individuals access permanent housing.

Counselling programs in the Calgary area will also share in a funding boost of more than $350,000 over two years:

Calgary Communities Against Sexual Abuse Society;

Calgary Counselling Centre;

The Distress Centre; and,

Peer Support Services for Abused Women.

“We really appreciate that the provincial government understands that the impact of the flood runs deep and still continues to this day. This funding will ensure that Distress Centre continues to provide crisis support to those affected by the flood.”

Joan Roy, Executive Director, Calgary Distress Centre

Under the Building Alberta Plan, our government is investing in families and communities, living within our means, and opening new markets for Alberta's resources to ensure we're able to fund the services Albertans told us matter most to them. We will continue to deliver the responsible change Albertans voted for.